Traitors Winner Rachel Duffy Shares Emotional Tribute Following Mother's Death
Rachel Duffy, who made history as the first female Traitor to win the UK version of the hit reality show, has posted a deeply moving tribute to her mother, Anne, who passed away at age 64. The sad news comes just days after the dramatic finale of The Traitors aired, where Rachel triumphed alongside fellow winner Stephen Libby.
Plans for Prize Money Turn to Heartbreak
The 42-year-old champion had intended to use her half of the £95,000 prize pot – amounting to £47,875 – specifically to create lasting memories with her mother, who had been living with dementia. Rachel had openly discussed her mother's health struggles during the series, revealing that Anne was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in her forties before developing dementia.
"I just want to create memories with her while I'm still lucky enough to have her, and to create memories with my kids, because they just love their nanny," Rachel explained during her time on the show, highlighting her family-focused motivations for competing.
A Poignant Instagram Tribute
Rachel has now shared a series of cherished family photographs spanning several decades on her Instagram account, accompanied by a heartfelt caption expressing her gratitude and love. "Thank you Mummy. Thank you for loving us so much. Thank you for teaching us our worth," she began.
The emotional post continued with multiple expressions of appreciation:
- "Thank you for so much kindness shown and taught"
- "Thank you for endless laughs and lots of fun"
- "Thank you for helping us parent our babies"
- "Thank you for being a shoulder to cry on when we needed one"
- "Thank you for the many words of wisdom over the years"
Rachel concluded the tribute by writing: "Thank you for showing us the true meaning of integrity. Thank you for giving us a beautiful life. Thank you for a lifetime of happy memories. Thank you for being our mummy. We love you x."
Support from Fellow Traitors Cast Members
The comments section quickly filled with messages of condolence and support from Rachel's fellow contestants. Joint winner Stephen Libby wrote: "Although I never met her I know how much of an incredible woman your mother must have been to have you and your siblings turn out the way you have, a truly beautiful family."
Finalist Faraaz Noor added: "Sending you and your family all the love in the world Rachel, just know how proud your mam is of you and the mother you are to your kids."
Jade Scott commented: "Sending you all my love and keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Your mama would be so proud of the woman you are."
Even show host Claudia Winkleman joined in offering support, leaving a series of heart emojis beneath the poignant post.
Announcing the Sad News
Rachel first shared news of her mother's passing last week in a separate Instagram post, writing: "We are heartbroken to share the passing of our beautiful wee mummy. We kindly ask for privacy as our family grieves during this difficult time."
The mum-of-three's tribute comes as her fellow winner Stephen revealed during an appearance on This Morning that he has yet to receive his share of the prize money. When asked by presenter Cat Deeley if the funds had arrived, Stephen responded: "But, yeah, I'm not checking [my banking app] because I just want to get a nice surprise when it finally comes in. But yeah, not yet."
Rachel's emotional tribute highlights the bittersweet nature of her victory, transforming what should have been a celebratory period into a time of personal reflection and family mourning following her mother's passing.
